Pitta underwent surgery during the summer to repair a dislocated hip. The recovery time is estimated at three to four months, but the IR designation would allow him to return for Week 9 of the regular season.

Ed Dickson, Pitta's replacement at tight end, has battled a hamstring injury during the preseason but is expected to play in Thursday night's season opener against the Denver Broncos.

The 28-year-old Pitta had 61 receptions for 669 yards and seven touchdowns last season during the Ravens' run to the Super Bowl championship.